Barrett and Kendra Bishop Family

for crying out loud

2011-05-10T20:57:00.000-07:00

it's nearly time for me to plant my pumpkins again and here i am just beginning to blog about our carving from last year... well, the way it goes down here at our home is that dad and mom cut off the tops, then each child cleans out their pumpkin as well as they can, then they draw a face on the pumpkin with a sharpie and mom or dad cut them out...and usually everyone is happy. took a while for me to do them all by myself but we survived. anson has come a long way as afar as pulling out the "guts" of the pumpkin...he used to stay far away from that part but did really well this time. and good o'l dax was a fairly content casual observer. that will so not be the case this coming year- i'm pretty sure..

happy halloween!

2011-05-09T06:29:00.000-07:00

wow, i'd made it all the way into october...totally forgot. anyway, the most important thing that happened with our family that month, besides getting to listen to general conference (which is honestly one of my favorite times of the year-it totally inspires me to be a better wife and mom and member of the church. good thing its twice a year! once a month would be even better :)) is our nearly annual trip to the Oregon Coast! We loaded up the van and drove to Seaside this year. and lucky for us we scored a helping set of hands for the trip!!my cousin, formerly known as colby lynn barney accompanied us and was such a fun addition...all the kids adored her, as did I! What a trooper is all i'm gonna say about that. now, even as i write this I just remembered that we only drove a few hours thursday night after school and stopped and slept. in pendleton? is that right? i totally can't remember and this is why you, no not you, I should write things down/blog right away because my memory is terrible. Well, it was a quick stop at a super 8 and not terribly eventful (i hope) and then we were on the road again the next morning. we did drive through portland then headed over to tillamook and went somewhat out of the way and will always go out of my way to go there for "the goods." unfortunately they were out of cheese curds..what the heck? so i "sampled" the cheese. a lot. yummm! and of course had a double scoop of chocolate peanut butter and cookies and cream ice cream in a cake cone-my very favorites!!!! thank you aunt michelle for taking a couple pics at the beloved destination

all in all it was a success and a dirty one at that...after coercing the kids back into the van for a bit longer we finally arrived at the resort and probably had dinner and definitely got in the hot tub/swimming pool and probably walked along the beach for a bit because thats the crown jewel, right? i know there's some pics of the pool from that night but the beach pics happened the next day

it was too cold to get out of the hot tub to take pics of anson and eden in the pool so...their loss! okay, honestly, the rest of the trip is kinda a jumble so i'll briefly share the highlights: breakfast all together at pig'n pancake-yum, some shopping at all the tourist traps, especially the candy store where i spent way too much money on salt water taffy, but it was good...i even got enough that eden was able to take 100 pieces on the 100th day of school-oh yes she did. kids/tucker/colby braved the ocean-wackos! anson is seriously in hog heaven on the beach!

and to be fair to the kids we spent some time and money in the arcade...they loved it. anson got a serious kick out of the roller coaster simulated ride (we NEED one of these at our house)

good times on the merry go round, in the toy store and the arcade, the pool and the beach...that is all these people need for a great vacation. i do remember that gma and gpa wood watched the kids one evening so colby, tuck, michelle and i could just hang out, shop, walk around which was super great and as a somewhat post script g&g wood went back to tillamook after we left to come home and picked up a big order of cheese curds for us-totally awesome!!!

I never meant for this to happen

2011-05-09T06:06:00.000-07:00

I never meant to have this humongo gap in my posts-never! It just sorta happened. and the guilt has finally eaten away at my conscience and so yet again we will try this. ohhhhh, i've missed so much and will therefore be playing catch up for a while. Selfishly I will enjoy going through the archives of pictures and I will pick and choose the ones worthy of saving for posterity. because I'm the mom-that's why...and because i really want one of those neat-o books that you can have printed off from your blog. hardbound. to keep forever and ever. and if i continue in my normal timely manner we just might get to christmas in july and who doesn't love that thought? And mostly i'm doing this because Barrett started a blog overseas and i love reading it and am sad when he doesn't have something new posted (so i can only imagine how he feels when he sees our last post from september staring right back at him...)! And if anyone is out there reading this and is interested in reading about captain bishop's experiences, just let me know in the comments and i'll send you a link........So, now where was i....

the top 5 reasons I love Mother's day...

2011-05-09T05:56:00.000-07:00

thank you, you beautiful and charming people! I love you forever...

the more recent past...

2010-10-11T22:24:00.000-07:00

Irrigation day=happy day in our home. Luckily it's on Saturdays this year (may be on Sunday's next year and that could be a new trial in our life) but until then the kids love to get their swim suits on and run and ride and splash around. Two weeks ago our dear neighbor, Jen, brought over a toy for the kids...uuhhhh, hello. Major hit! Dax was asleep and Anson wasn't interested but Bo and Eden had a good o'l time pushing each other around. Even the cars driving by would slow way down and smile and wave and cheer. Totally wore each of them out. It was cool. Too bad it was probably the last warm irrigation day of the year...more next summer for sure!

And just a little sneak peak at a cute crack because I can

Also, this same evening the Boise Zoo had a military appreciation night where families could get in for free and had the place to ourselves for a couple hours. It was seriously great! The last few times I've been to the zoo has been for a field trip at the end of the school year when it's 90+ degrees with a million kids running around crazy. This night was cool and reasonably calm with WAY less people-so nice. We joined up with our friends, the Dopp's, and had a good time darting from cage to cage seeing almost everything there was to see. After the kids last trip down the giraffe slide we were walking past a patch of grass where a worker was holding what I thought was a pretty good sized snake. But, oh no, I tell you. It was a "legless lizard". I have never heard of such a thing but there it was. The difference is that the LL jaw doesn't unhinge so it can only eat baby mice not big ones, and it has a shorter body and long tail whereas the snake has a long body and short tail. Just a little FYI. The kids were fascinated, seriously.

Here's Anson wanting to touch it one more time and Eden is most assuredly asking the nice zoo worker where the LL poop comes out. A-Mazing!

Good times, I tell you.

In the past...

2010-10-11T21:00:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago both Anson and Eden's schools had their fall fundraiser. For Anson's school they did a carnival and I was given the opportunity to make 100 carmel apples. That means I unwrapped nearly a thousand of those individual carmels over multiple hours, swatted away way too many little digits who were trying to sneak my hard earned carmels, and said,"I promise you can have a carmel apple tomorrow at the carnival" soooo many times I was a broken record. You can bet that we got to the carnival on time so that we could eat dinner and hunt down the clown selling the apples.

Never again, for a long, long time!

The kids enjoyed the games, the bounce houses, the dunk tank, the food and the face painting. Success!!

Eden's party was the following evening. Rock of Ages, it was called. Each class dressed in a different era and learned a dance from that era to perform for the families. Kindergarten and 1st grade were 50's. Eden did rousing rendition of the peppermint twist, and I mean it. She was great! I also saw some rockin' costumes that night. Cracked-me-up! Luckily we have an amazing friend named Carol who we called a couple hours before the show to borrow some dress ups-she totally came through for me. Eden was very excited!! Unfortunately the gym is tiny and only one grade could be in there at a time so we didn't get to watch the other dances but like I said, the costumes were sweet.
So, they had a good dinner but not nearly as many games/activities. Which was okay with me as we didn't stay out nearly as late or spend as much $. We all got a snow cone, played on the playground because you can never run around nearly enough on that school play equipment, can you? I took one picture of Eden with her friend and classmate, Conner. So cute! At this point she had taken off the scarf that was around her neck and maybe even the one that was in her hair because they were making her sweat-y. Her words, not mine.

Guess who?...

2010-09-26T14:52:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago I got this piano book out to show a friend and low and behold we woke up this morning and Anson sat down on the bench, opened the book and began to teach himself how to play-totally AWESOME! It's a very beginner book that just teaches how to position right and left hands from middle C. Nonetheless, he got through most of the book before church then came home from church and finished then went through it again. It was amazing! This kid has mad skills teaching himself how to do things with hardly any assistance from adults, ie. the computer, riding his bike, and now the piano. Now I'm not saying he's a savant or anything, just a smart little whipper-snapper that makes me proud! I'd post the video of him playing but I don't know how so you just get the still pics...

...and counting...

2010-09-23T15:42:00.001-07:00

ONE WEEK DOWN, that's all I'm gonna say...!

Of extreme importance...

2010-09-20T21:14:00.000-07:00

On Saturday 11 September 2010 Anson James Bishop was baptized and confirmed a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints by his father, Barrett James Bishop. And oh, what a day it was! Since Barrett wasn't around the weekend before for the stake baptism we had our own private service of sorts. Many friends and family members participated, encouraged and shared in Anson's glowing spirit! Thank you to those in attendance-we loved having you near. For those of you who couldn't make it, this is what you missed: Anson's primary teacher, Sister Bauer, and the bishopric sharing some thoughts and experiences involving Anson that brought a whole new level of warmth to the meeting and made me really weepy and then Anson, as he's coming down the steps into the font saying,"wow, it's warm water", another step, and then,"oh, the underpants are wet"! After we assured him it was okay for everything to be wet it all went better than I expected-he did awesome! Didn't even try to swim around or dive. After the baptism Eden and Grandma Wood sang a sweet primary song "When Jesus Christ was Baptized" (inwhich Eden sang really well the first 2 lines, then Gma Wood did the rest) and then the confirmation by Barrett and then Anson shook everyone's hand and when he got to the Bishop he said, "thanks for saving my life". How cute is that?
Unfortunately as with many of life's more important and meaningful opportunities I did not take any pictures-luckily my dear husband steps in from time to time and gets a couple of real good ones...Anson (singing) and ironing his white shirt and Anson and Dad pre baptism.

Way to go, Anson! We could not be more proud of you and the way you live your earthly existance. WE are so blessed to have YOU in our home- Hope you know how much your sister and brothers (and parents) love you and look up to you. You've come such a long way in your interactions and involvement with us-thank you for your patience and smiles!

This is gonna take a while

2010-09-19T19:52:00.000-07:00

This is just for the record. Pictures that fill my eyes to the brim with tears, both happy and sad. Barrett with the kids just before jumping in the truck to head to the airport...

Nice tire in the background, right? What were we thinking..?..

And then after our hasty arrival at the airport we found a slightly secluded area for some good-bye hugs and final words of wisdom and a little pinball...I refuse to post the pic of my red, puffy, ugly-cry eyes so this is what you get.

Daddy and Bo

I'm not quite sure who's consoling who here but isn't it cute?

Daddy and Eden

One final SMOOCH!

Luckily we were running just a little behind schedule so our farewell was abrupt and then he was gone...I could've rushed down the escalator and out the doors but the kids wanted to stop and play on the video games/rides downstairs-uuugghhhh...cursed machines! Even with no money they insisted on sitting for a few minutes. What could I do but oblige?

And now, to tell you the truth I'm ending this. It is taking a ridiculously long time to upload the pictures on here. I've been away too long-any ideas? pointers/suggestions?

I've forgotten...

2010-09-17T21:59:00.000-07:00

It has been 15 months. Fifteen months, my friends, since we've graced you with our family happenings. The guilt is about enough to do me in and so I'm gonna give it another shot. Seeing as how I have next to nothing to show for the past year and a half and knowing that the upcoming year will be one worth remembering (for future laughs, I hope) we begin anew...I should've started this hours ago but I'd forgotten how to change and rearrange and add and delete, etc, etc. Sooooooo tomorrow will bring new pictures and such. For now my empty king size bed is beckoning and with the Run for Autism Awareness in the morning I need all the rest I can squeeze in. And did I mention that I'll be walking and not jogging this year-I'm outta control, out of shape so we'll be doing a family stroll of sorts. All for a great cause so it's alright with me!

I'll be in touch, sooner than later

two months old and the month of May

2009-06-10T21:37:00.000-07:00

May itself was not too terribly exciting though we did do some fun family activities and I had a very nice mother's day, but for the most part it was just busy. I managed to get a few pictures of things happening around the house, but none of our Memorial Day weekend. I also got a couple of Mother's Day and I've taken several(or more) of Dax as he is just growing like a weed. I can't be sure but I'm thinking he's about ready to pass up his 6-8 month old Utah cousins any minute. More on that in a bit...Like I said, the month was fun times spent with family and friends, mother's day brought me an early delicious breakfast in bed and some hostas and daisies to plant in the yard and we had Bishop/Kent families and G&G Wood over for dinner and/or dessert. Man, I almost forgot that I was invited over to Travis and Stacies for a mother's day brunch that was exquisite! They seriously spent a lot of time and put forth such a great effort and did not disapoint-it was SO GOOD!!! Thanks again, you two! It was just a great day with lots of great food which always makes me happy! We've been spending lots of time outside with the nice weather; planting our little gardens, riding bikes (I'm trying to teach Anson to ride without training wheels and he just keeps telling me that the bike is broken, hummmpf. Any suggestions?) Barrett and the kids even did a mock campout in the backyard in preperation for Memorial Day weekend. The kids loved it so much they slept out in the tent every night for nearly a week. Unfortunately they had a hard time falling asleep while it was so light outside, which led to several nights in a row with not nearly enough sleep, which led to crabby kids, which led to crabby mommy and that was the end of that. I'm a party pooper, what can I say? Luckily, they still had a great time when we finally did go camping with our friends, the Roettos on Mem. Day weekend. We ended up staying and camping in Glenn's Ferry on Friday night then drove over through Bliss and Hagerman and ended at a warm springs swimming pool Sat. afternoon after a picnic down on the Snake River. Lara and I entertained the younger kids; Eden, Bo, Dax, Ella and Axel, while Barrett, Anson, Marco and Jacob did some exploring for fossils. We had such a good time with their family! Too bad I took no pictures. Now, as far as Dax goes-he's pretty adorable until he cries at night. He still is a bit colic-y, but not nearly as bad as he used to be. Unfortunately he also has reflux, but doesn't seem too upset by it. And surprisingly enough some of that milk is sticking because he is growing all over the place. He went in today for his 2 month check up and he is already at 13 lbs, 11 oz (90th%)23 3/4 in. long (75th%) and head circumfrence is 16 1/2cm (90%)-Wow! Plus he has started to smile, mostly at the angel's above our heads, but occasionally at his siblings and parents too-it's just the sweetest thing in the whole world!!! So there you have it. Our month in a nutshell. Next month should be a really good one as we have so many fantastic things to celebrate in June-I can't wait!!!

They're back...

2009-05-05T15:19:00.000-07:00

Every spring Eden is drawn to these precious yellow flowers. They used to make me mad, now I actually enjoy seeing them, or at least, I enjoy seeing how much she loves them. Maybe she'll always love them and have them in her wedding? There seems to be such an art in her picking and choosing and placing them in a bunch. She doesn't pick every one, I'm not sure how she does it, but she definately has a method to her madness. And every day, usually two or three times a day, she brings a bundle into the house for me. What Joy! What will I do when the spring comes and she doesn't do this? It pains me to think about it, so I will just enjoy it now-yellow mustache, yellow smears on her clothes and all!

One month old (a few days ago)!

2009-05-05T15:11:00.000-07:00

Dax is really doing well-growing like crazy! Starting to sleep a little more at night-longer periods at a time. Hooray! We're all adjusting and still loving on him! What a little wonder!!!

April in a slideshow

2009-05-05T14:18:00.000-07:00

...and we're Home!...

2009-04-04T17:49:00.000-07:00

Just a little FYI. I started this entry on Saturday evening, but the kids did come home before I could complete it and then the computer was monopolized and yada, yada...Anyway.

Well, we did it. We got checked in, we got induced, we labored, we took on the epidural (which some of us handled better than others; ask me about it sometime, or better yet, ask Barrett about it sometime...)we pushed-once, and we birthed...a handsome little fellow whom we will lovingly refer to as Dax Michael Bishop. Introducing... Dax: arrived: 1314, 7 lbs, 9oz, 20 in. long

I love the last two pictures of Anson holding Dax. He's come a long ways. When Eden was born he didn't even want to be in the same room with her. He held Dax for a good couple minutes and even gave him a smooch-so sweet!
Now, for all of you out there wondering, we think he's about the spitting image of Bo (lucky boy), and yes, he has all his fingers and everything else, no big surprises so far. As of his being two days old, he has dark hair, darker skin and of course his eyes look dark, just like our other 3 kiddos. Sorry Barrett. Luckily they all seem to get some of his other fantastic qualities. I realize Dax can still change...maybe his eyes will turn blue? Anyway, we think he's perfect, just like all our others and are so extremely happy that he's here!
Our time in the hospital was great-two full days for me and Dax. We had wonderful nurses, and several friends and family who visited or phoned, but best of all, the two of us had ourselves some quality one on one time. I realize most people don't like to stay at the hospital longer than absolutely necessary, but I always enjoy the time alone with the new babe and the room service! I even sat and enjoyed almost the whole morning session of Conference today, it really was great. Now we're home and the kids will be home soon...this could be a very exciting evening. Luckily Barrett will be home from the priesthood session soon as well. I want to very publicly thank Gma & Gpa Wood for all their time and energy and days off from work that they sacrificed to help out this week(end)! I know that Anson, Eden and Bo have enjoyed their time with you, I know you spoil them like good grandparents do, and I love you so much for it! They (we) are blessed!

Here goes nothin...

2009-04-01T21:35:00.000-07:00

So... we're off to the hospital tomorrow morning to try and coax this baby down from out of my ribcage and into our anxiously awaiting family. This has been such an emotional roller coaster for me the last few weeks; every other week the baby was in a different position making me really nervous that we would have to do a c-section, but there's still a possibility that we can do the other. At the Doctor's on Monday baby was head down and I was finally dialated to a 3. I hope nothing has changed too dramatically since then, other than being further dialated. Eden is so excited to have the baby come out. She's been counting down the days with me this week and simultaneously tells me how my belly is getting bigger every day-Love it! I also believe that Bo is sort of excited- he just loves his cousin, baby Arli. Hope he loves whatever he comes to see tomorrow..? I did get just a tad bit teary eyed as I rubbed his back to get him to sleep tonight. My last night with him as my little Baby Bo...he is so grown up these days. I tried to talk to Anson about the new baby tonight-this is not the first time, believe me, but all he would say is "No Baby". Little does he know that baby could be rooming with him before too long. We'll see how he adjusts. I know for sure that I'm a little nervous to add another to this madness, but am well aware there is some reason, greater than I can imagine, for this surprise...So, bring it on, I guess!

I am going to take just a minute to back peddle just a bit and round off the end of March. Since my last post we've done many trips to many parks around the valley, done some family get togethers, celebrated Bo's 2nd birthday and uncle Travis' 27th, and had mine and Barrett's 8th anniversary, with a little bit of a mini AT (national guard annual training-8 days)followed by a fairly relaxing Spring Break. AT started on the 13 and went till the 21st. If I remember correctly all the kids got sick in one form or another, but apparently no one got as sick as Barrett who was totally out of commission for a few days on base, and even had to get two IV's to help rehydrate. I tell you, this guy is running himself ragged. What do I do? Anyhow, we all survived and were happy to have him back home for Bo's Bday on the 22nd. Somewhere in there aunt Bethany and Evan and Dallin came to visit the local Bishop's/Kent's and we had lots of fun with them! Several trips to the parks and swimming in G&G Bishop's hot tub, not to mention that she very willingly came over on the 23rd so that Barrett and I could go out and have a yum anniversary dinner at the cheesecake factory. What a wonderful sister (in law), and friend! We did miss you, Matthew, and look forward to seeing you in June, but thanks for sharing your family with us. Bo's birthday party was a good time as it coincided with Travis' birthday and Tucker's last dinner before he took off to California. Bo enjoyed trying to blow out all two of his candles and think eventually gma Wood helped out. He recieved some fun gifts; his very own copy of Pete's Dragon, the movie, which he asks for every day, a play broom with dustpan just his size so that he can just do it by himself without my "help", some new dinosaurs and cars, a new book and a new basketball hoop-which all the kids enjoy, especially Beck! We were treated with delicious cake and homemade ice cream, thank you gpa Botkin. What a fun birthday! Like I said earlier, Bo is growing up so quickly. He is really trying hard to communicate with us, speaking much more clearly than the other two, it's amazing! He knows his letters, his colors, counts to 10, etc..and is just so fun-most of the time. He is also getting very independant and am starting to see the terrible two's come out, just a touch, in him. But I wouldn't trade him for anything, he's so adorable. He loves to play with his brother and sister and cousins, copy most everything they do, ride/scoot on his tricycle, jump on the tramp, go for walks and play at the park, read stories and play with his toys. What an awesome little man!And in no particular order...

three months and counting...

2009-03-12T04:41:00.000-07:00

But who's counting, right? I've been over run by guilt at how much I have missed out on posting about, mostly because my pregnant brain can't seem to remember what happened 3 minutes ago, let alone three months ago. And I have taken so few pictures lately, due in large part to my absent mindedness because I always forget to grab the camera when we go out. So, again this will be a major wrap up of what I can remember since the new year began and we'll press on from there...

January: Anson started pool therapy again which everyone loves because everyone likes to go swimming. Except Bo. Well, he likes it for about 15 minutes and then he's done. So strange to me because the other two are not satisfied unless they have been in for at least an hour and are turning wrinkly. Both Eden and Bo got goggles or "gobbles" as Eden likes to call them for Christmas which definately helps with the chlorine in the eyes issues. I really hope to get her into some swim lessons this summer! Barrett began another class to further himself along in his master's program so he's out of commision on Tuesday nights now-blah, but oh well. We had a really good time at a baby shower for "aunt katie" which took place at the Angie Munson home. Great food and great family! Yeah for Katie and new baby to come. Here is the one picture I have from the shower. Yikes, I'm as big as Katie and Michelle who both had less than a month at that point and I still had 3. Stacie just looks cute...
There was also a fun shower for Michelle the following weekend at her parents home which was pretty funny and fun! unfortunately, no pics. Eden attended both parties with me and had a good time, but was worn out after both. It's fun to be able to take her to things like this-sometimes she can be such an emotional girly-girl! I'm sure we did some other really fun stuff, but no pictures = few memories for me. Oh wait, we did go snow shoeing with Travis and Stacie on MLK day up near Idaho City. It was nice to get out of the inversion and into some clean air for a few hours. The kids had fun sledding and eating a picnic lunch, though of course there was some drama...one of the biggest fits I've ever witnessed by our very own Bo Bishop, and then he fell asleep immediately as I was holding him, trying desperately to console him. I was beginning to wonder if he had an ear infection or something, but I'm convinced he was overly exhausted. Luckily we laid him on a sled and were able to enjoy the rest of our lunch. Too bad I even had my camera on this outing, but only got it out once or twice. Thanks anyway to Travis and Stacie for puting up with us! Anson enjoying the sled, Eden eating the snow, Bo (possibly in the beginning stages of his fit) and finally plum worn out...

I now remember why there isn't much to post about for this month. I got sick, really sick for me...and it lasted almost 3 weeks. Yuck-I'm glad that is over with. I must've really tried hard to put that out of my brain. Oh, and one more positive thing to note was a visit over to see the newest Bishop cousin, Mallory Jane Bishop, daughter of Brett and Lori. She was actually born at the end of December, but it was the beginning of January before we got out to see her. Beautiful girl. No picture. Okay, I just remembered one more great thing that happened. Anson recieved an award at the school award ceremony for Superb Mathematical Intelligence! Let it be known he did not get the good math genes from me. Surprise. Way to go, sunshine!

February: Again, not a lot written on the calendar, but I know we stayed busy doing something... Baby Sage Solosabal was born during the Superbowl. She sure is cute and it was nice to visit with Gma andGpa Munson! At the beginning of the month I put together invites for a couples valentines party. There really aren't that many younger couples in the ward, but since I'm in primary I don't feel like I know them as well as I'd like. I keep saying we're gonna have a get together, but it never happens. Well, this month I vowed to make it happen and we had a great time! twelve couples invited, eight attended. not too bad. We did a progressive dinner. Two appetizer houses with breadsticks and veggie trays, two dinner houses with pizza and salad and one dessert house with a couple of fondue fountains and lots of chocolate dipped stuff...delicious! I tried to mix and match the couples so that they were with different people at different parts of the dinner, then everyone together for dessert. I like to think that all who attended had a good time, I know I did. Thanks to couples who offered their homes and to friends who helped create this date! Too bad there are no pictures, we'll have to do it again soon...
The weather has been crazy here, 50 degrees one day, snow all over the next. The kids have really enjoyed being outside on the days when it's nice to go for a walk, and in Eden's case, pick the neighbors crocuses-aaggghhh! What am I going to do with that girl? The third week of the month baby Arli Botkin was born. She, too, is adorable and reminds me lots of her brother. My kids, especially Eden and Bo, seem to really be liking these new little babes-hope this doesn't wear off before ours is born...The following weekend I had planned (weeks in advance) for one last family hurrah before things get crazy in March but at the last minute Barrett had a huge military brigade war fighter thing come up (seemingly from out of no where)and he was not able to join us in our little getaway to McCall. I couldn't even give this trip away (it was two days notice). I guess everyone has real jobs or planned out lives or something to that effect, crazy. I finally persuaded my dad to drive up with me and just stay overnight, then Travis and Stacie got the place Saturday night. The kids really had a great time with Gpa Botkin and it was much easier and more enjoyable than doing it by myself. We watched movies, went swimming, even went to the local library, cute little thing-all activities that we can do here in Boise, just different. And that's what we needed was something different. I even packed all our snow gear so we could enjoy all the bounteous snow up there, but somehow managed to forget the sleds. And the camera. Go figure. All I know is that we missed Barrett lots, but had a good time with grandpa, away from the everyday routine, even if it was for just one night/day... Barrett was basically non existant in our lives for the last 8 days of the month, running back and forth between all three jobs getting very minimal sleep, like two hours every night. I sort of joked at the beginning of the week that when it was all said and done he would either be sick or his mouth would be covered in cold sores. Not funny, but true on both accounts, especially the cold sores. Wow! The last weekend of Feb/first weekend of March was the time for both Sage and Arli to be blessed so there was lots of family in town. Saturday I enjoyed a little girls getaway to lunch at Chili's and a little shopping at the mall with the Munson aunts, cousins and Gma. Thanks to Gpa Wood for watching the kiddos. Lots of fun, especially because I found a great new dress for Eden for her birthday the following Monday. That night we went out to Mark and Janelle's and devoured pizza and desserts-delicious!! One of these days Gma Wood came and got Eden and took her to pick out her own bunch of flowers (she picked purple tulips) and they went and had lunch with Gpa Wood! She loved it!!! And that about sums up February...

March: Comes in like a lion, right? We kicked off the month with the baby blessings on Sunday. Unfortunately we didn't make it out to Sage's, but I heard it was beautiful. Congratulations again to Katie and Jim! Tucker did a very nice job blessing Arli. It's always fun to go and visit that ward which is full of dear friends we made when we lived with Mom and Mike. Then Eden's 4th birthday on Monday the 2nd. Our sweet friend, Carol, who went with us on our trip to Disneyland called to see if she could come and get Eden for lunch which worked out wonderfully as I had some last minute things to pick up for her b-day. Carol has a grandson down in Arizona who shares the same exact birthday, turning the same age and everything. Not only did they get lunch, they went to the zoo (she has a pass and said it was free) and then went to to dollar store and got some fun sticker earings and some bracelets. She said she would've done the same thing with her grandson if he were here. Lucky Eden. Bo and I hit Zurcher's and Toys R Us, came home and decorated and started the princess/barbie cake. That evening we had most of the local family over for dessert and Eden opened some wonderful, fantastic gifts! Thank you to everybody for coming to celebrate our sweet Eden! I'm pretty sure she had her best birthday to date! I managed to get a couple of pictures and know that Gpa Wood got some good ones I just can't get them onto our computer right now for some reason.

At my previous Dr appt I was informed that our baby is breech and might need to be manually turned if it doesn't turn itself-ugh! This gets me a little worked up because a) it just doesn't sound fun, the whole external turning process, not to mention it could induce labor/c-section, etc... b) Barrett will be gone the 13th through the 21 for a mini AT-annual training = not around our home at all. c) Bo's b-day the 22nd and d) our anniversary the 23rd. All I'm trying to say is that I am not ready to have a baby, yet. Due April 5th, love to have it then...we'll see, I guess. Since Eden's birthday Eden, Bo and I had a lovely lunch at Lori Bishop's with Becky Ann and Calli and their kids. Barrett was able to squeeze in a trip up to Bogus to ski/snowboard with his scouts. I attended our ward enrichment relief society b-day celebration which was lots of fun! Barrett and I went to a birthday party for a couple from our old ward who both turned 30 and threw their own party with pizza, human foosball, a pinata, and yummy ice cream dessert. This all took place at the church and was loads of fun. I didn't participate in the game, but took pictures and video and laughed hysterically! It was a super fun group, people that we don't see often enough. And no kids, thank you gma and gpa botkin for babysitting. Monday the 9th Travis and Stacie, Tuck and Michelle and Barrett and I were able to use our gift certificates to the flatbread pizza place and go glow-in-the-dark minature golfing. This was tons of fun, mainly because I beat Tucker!?Ha! I think I can safely say it was a fun date for all of us, besides Stacie's minor ankle twisting episode-poor girl. Thank you to Mom and Mike for this very fun christmas present and for babysitting! Oh yes, Travis and Stacie found out they're having a girl, due end of July. If we don't have a girl our little boy is gonna be way outnumbered in the immediate and extended family on both sides...And I did go to the Dr again and the baby did indeed turn on it's own (big sigh of relief from me), but there is apparently lots of amniotic fluid in my belly (I just knew it couldn't possibly all be girl scout cookies)so the baby can keep turning around and around since it's still so high. I'm down to weekly appointments so we will just keep checking on it...And I do believe that brings us up to current...Thank you to Elder and Sister Bishop for the reminders to update. But I just have to say that I'm rather excited for you two to get home this summer and be a part of all of this craziness!

Countdown to Christmas...part 2

2008-12-30T05:07:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve we went out to Barrett's brother Brett's house for lite finger foods and traditional Nativity. Slightly exagerating about the "lite" finger foods-we had so much good stuff, we hardly put a dent in any of it, except the chocolate fondue. There was a little bit of everything and it was delectable! Of course, I could not tear myself away from my plate to get a picture, but it was beautiful! Then we had a short piano concert from Joslyn and Sabrina and then the Nativity. This is just about half of the Bishop family grandkids...Here is one of the very handsome shepherd's (this costume lasted all of about 49 seconds and then he was done!)

Another handsome shepherd (Andrew), baby Jesus-played by a baby doll, Sabrina portrayed the part of Mary, Eden was a very beautiful Angel, and James was a donkey!

Erin was the Shining Star!

here's a couple more; Joslyn was a wise "woman"! and Anson as another handsome shepherd.

And here is a picture of parts of everyone but Blake, who was a very cute drummer boy, plus Becky Ann and Boyd herding the mass. Thanks guys! One big happy Nativity if I ever saw one...

We also had an opportunity to call G&G Bishop, or should I say Elder and Sister Bishop, in Kenya to wish them a Merry Christmas. Just about everyone got a chance to say hello and good wishes, though the call got cut off a few times. We can't wait till next year when they will be home to partake of this crazy, beautiful madness we call Christmas Eve!

Two days before Christmas we were over at Gma Woods house watching the BSU bowl game, which we won't be discussing, and Barrett went in to check on the kids who were watching a movie and Anson just handed him his tooth. No blood, no crying or complaining, nothing. We had discovered that it was quite loose several days before when he was eating some popcorn and he wiggled it a lot that day, but I had not noticed or heard him mention it since. Then, tadaaa, here it is. He was not keen on having the camera up close and personal to his mouth, obviously, so you can just kinda see a shadow where the tooth used to be-bottom, middle, left, whichever one that is. Gpa Wood may have gotten a better picture, not sure. Needless to say he mentioned the Tooth Fairy and everything so G&G put a dollar in change under his pillow that night and he was very content! My little sunshine, all growing up!

Just like most children, Bo enjoys trying to trudge around in mom's (or dad's) boots. They are so huge on him, it's just hilarious watching him. I'm afraid that he'd already fallen down a time or two by the time I tried to snap this picture so he wasn't very pleased to pose...

This was our families first snowman of the season, courtesy of Barrett and Anson who had moved on to other things by the time I got outside, so Eden posed for me. When I asked her what we should name it, of course she said frosty, every snowman real, stuffed, on paper, ornament, etc..is called frosty. End of story. And just so you know we did build our own right next to this little cutie, just didn't get any pics.

Eden chowing down on an icicle from somewhere. Underneath the tire swing, I think. Yum!

Unfortunately this is about the only still picture I have of Anson waiting with his SLC class for their school program to start. I'm just pretending like he's scrating his face, but more than likely he is picking his nose. Think what you will..Anyway, his class has a boy who sits up on stage and each member of their class takes some piece of clothing up to him to dress him up as Santa, while the members of the choir sing "Must be Santa". Anson got to give him a beard that's white-he did a great job!Then they load Santa into a wagon and the other kids put on reigndeer headbands and pull him away. Anson also took the opportunity as he was walking past one of the mics on stage to sing, "Ho,Ho,Ho", not scripted, but kind of cute in a little bit of an embarassing sort of way...Of course, this is all on video on the camera, I just don't know how to post it. So you get the one still shot and can just imagine the rest in your head-it's cute, I promise!

This is the morning that we started decorating the tree, and I use the word started because the kids have never really finished, and it's really nearly a week after Christmas. They are constantly rearranging ornaments and decorations-next year, they will have their own tree...It really was a good time though, that first morning. It started snowing for the first time in December and the kids had a blast!Unfortunately Anson's bus came to pick him up just as we were getting started. But like I said, the decorating never ceased, so he's had a chance or two.

Countdown to Christmas...part 1

2008-12-29T07:13:00.000-08:00

So we made the trek up to our secret place past Idaho City to locate our lucky christmas tree. We met up with uncle Travis and aunt Stacie and had a real memorable experience searching for our tree, thanks mostly to Eden and her toileting techniques. Anyway, we didn't give ourselves a whole lot of time so we had to look fast and furious...luckily "our spot" did not disapoint and Travis and Barrett picked out a couple of real winners. Big, beautiful trees for $10-how can you pass that up...unfortunately I didn't get a pic of the trees before they got loaded up, just some of the kids, searching and/or eating snow! Good times...Eden and Bo both got in a good nap on the way up, but Anson stayed awake and sang lots of christmas songs with Barrett and I.

Our friends, Blake and Emmalee Anderson came to play one day so we whipped up some cookies and frosting. There was lots of eating and a little decorating-what a great tradition!

A little brother/sister love...

Aunt Bethany, Eden and James riding the zip line in neighbor Travis' backyard!

Thanksgiving Day

2008-12-29T06:57:00.000-08:00

We had such a fantastic day with two of Barrett's sisters and their families! Becky Ann, Boyd, James and Andrew hosted and Bethany, Matthew, Evan and Dallin came over from Portland. And they brought Rock Band, which always makes for a great time with the Bishop families!!! The food was delish, and the company was fantastic! What a blessing this family is! Thanks to aunt Bethany for letting me borrow all her pictures, even though I somehow managed to lessen their quality. Not quite sure how, but I did. Hopefully, you'll still get the idea...

What we're thankful for...

2008-11-28T05:40:00.001-08:00

Thankful, but COMPLETELY SHOCKED!

Due Date: April 5, 2009 (or approx a week later because that's just how our babies are)!

Falling for Fall/2nd Annual Bishop Leaf Raking Party

2008-11-24T08:14:00.000-08:00

One week and two days later I am finally posting...We had a really fun weekend with the local Bishop cousins, aunts and uncle (sorry you missed it Boyd)! Everyone showed up Saturday the 15th with rakes in hand, ready to tackle our backyard. Of course, the kids had a fun time running, throwing, and swinging in the leaves, all the while the adults were trying to rake up piles. No harm done though. The kids got their fill and then Barrett and Brett were able to complete the task while the ladies put the finishing touches on lunch! This project went so much more quickly with all the helping hands-we are extremely grateful for all the help-THANKS YOU GUYS! Lunch was good, with some soup and cocoa to warm our belly's and then a bite of Happy Birthday cake and ice cream for Barrett. He turned the big 31 that day and was more than happy to be surrounded by his family. Niece Joslyn even made a spectacular birthday sign-thanks, Joslyn! Later that day after the party ended and the kids got some naps in we took the kids to Gpa Botkins so that we could go to a movie. We overwhelmingly both chose the new James Bond show, Quantum of Solace! SO GOOD-very intense, with some violence, full of action, (not to mention the fact that I think Daniel Craig (James Bond) is extremely enjoyable to look at)! We both liked it a lot. We were pretty worn out by that time and Barrett was feeling the onset of the nasty sickness going around so we basically called it a day at that point. Probably not an ideal birthday for some, but a pretty happy day for Barrett and for the rest of us!

What we've been up to...

2008-11-13T05:53:00.000-08:00

I believe that I neglected to post several items of interest for our family last month. And so this is more for my records than anything else. The weekend after our trip to Disneyland we had an opportunity to drive back down to Utah to partake in several family activities. Barrett actually had his 10th missionary reunion, but I think it was only the second one he's been able to attend as they generally take place on General Conference weekend which is always drill weekend. We missed most of the festivities of the evening, but got there for some good grub and lots of visiting. We were able to spend both Friday and Saturday night with my Gram and Bill, which is always fun and not to mention, delicious! Saturday morning we got up and drove out to Tooele for Max Wolfe's baptism and confirmation and spent most of the day at the Wolfe's home having a wonderful time! Sunday morning were able to attend Brad and Callie's ward in Salt Lake and witness Ainsley's blessing. We attended all 3 hours then went to Brad's place for some yummy dinner!! It was a fantastic, busy weekend and were only surprised with some crazy, snowy weather. We are so lucky to be a part of such a fabulous family! Later that week I made an appointment to take Anson and Eden to the doctor to have their tonsils/adenoids checked-sure enough they both needed them removed. Eden I was not surprised about, but Anson's came as a bit of a shock. We scheduled their surgery for the earliest time possible, 6 weeks out. The rest of October was real fun. Fast forward to last week. Got a phone call from the Drs office saying they could be moved up a week due to cancellation so I jumped on it. Tuesday November 4 we woke up early, too early because they couldn't eat anything before. Just kept trying to console them with the fact that they could live off of ice cream, popsicles, pudding, yogurt, etc..for the next couple weeks. Luckily this seemed to tide them over. We met my mom at surgery center and settled in for our wait. Bo got to hang out at home with Gpa Botkin-thanks Dad! By the time we were taken back Anson was pretty agitated, surely having some flashbacks from his dental surgery in August. Just on a fun side note, both kids had to be weighed and they came in weighing the exact same thing; 40.6 lbs. crazy, eh? The nurses were great, stocked with lots of activities and toys for the kids to play with and then they came and wisked Eden away. They gave her a crown to wear first and she was thrilled. 15-20 minutes later the Dr popped her head in and said things went great and it would soon be Anson's turn. They came for Anson, who was not so happy, and I was gathering up some things to go back out into the waiting room when a fire alarm went off. Yikes...Where were my kids? do they have a secret safe bunker for patients? A bit of a scare for me. Mom and I waited outside in her car for about 10-15 minutes and then got to go back in. I was taken back immediately to find that both kids were just fine, Eden was beginning to wake up and wasn't terribly happy and Anson was on his way back to recovery. The Dr. had learned that the alarm had been pulled by a child (luckily not one of mine)and since Anson had just been put under she decided to continue with the surgery. Gma Wood consoled Eden and I went in to be with Anson who was clearly unhappy. He finally settled down long enoung for us to get dismissed and we were outta there. It has now been about 10 days and things have been,thankfully, uneventful compared to what I expected. Never having been through this before I didn't know quite what to expect, maybe lots of throw-up and blood, but so far none of either. Just a whole lot of wanting to cuddle and be comforted, lots of medicine, buckets of juice and hours and hours of disney movies. I think we are headed for the clearing now and I am so glad. Hopefully nothing unexpected in the next few days. Unfortunately Barrett had parent/teacher conferences all day Wed and Thurs and Fri & Sat he had a German immersion weekend in Donnelly so he missed out on lots of the excitement, I guess I'll let him get the next post op patient...I did get to go and vote on the 4th, (for all the good it did)though I am thankful to have the opportunity to vote as I feel, and I did manage to produce (with lots of help) my first primary program-very stressful for me, it turned out well but I'm sure glad I don't have to worry about that again for a few months. Unfortunately my mom's surgery/recovery was going on during all this so I have not been able to help or comfort her at all. In fact, the very opposite, she has been a huge help, all the family has, but she especially. I know she is exhausted, but is still willing to come and take a kid or two for a couple hours to give me a little reprive. I don't know how to possibly repay her, I just want her to know how incredibly grateful I am to have her in my life. I love you, Mom! She starts her iodine treatment today and will be radioactive for a few days so she took me, Stacie and Michelle to the dollar theatre last night and we saw Momma Mia-her 5th time, my 2nd and the other's first time. We had lots of fun! Plus, it was so fantastic to get out of the house and away from the "cling-ons" for a few hours-thanks Gpa Wood for watching them all as Barrett had scouts. Anyway, I guess that's all for now. Sorry for the long post, but this is my life in a nutshell right now!!!

Thank You

2008-11-11T21:37:00.000-08:00

I'm very late getting this message out, but it's been on my mind all day, of course. I just wanted to thank each and every vetran for their service and therefore, my freedom! We had the opportunity as a family to go and visit an old neighbor named "Brownie" tonight. He is a Vietnam Vet and as proud as they come, not to mention a huge helper with all things mechanical and a "squirrel whisperer". We took a plate of cookies and a little note and had such a nice visit with him. He was home watching old war movies by himself and seemed so excited to have us there. It made me wonder how many vetrans were at home by themselves this night? There are so very many men and women out there who have given so much and all I can say is Thank You! Most certainly I want to give a special shout out to good friends and family who have served in many capacities, especially my Father-in-Law, 2 brothers-in-law and my favorite, MY HUSBAND!
I really am proud and grateful for all of your service. I ocasionally (monthly) complain that Barrett deserts us for the weekend once a month, but I truly appreciate his desire to give of his time for training in order to be prepared when called upon to leave again, whenever that will be...Anyways, thank you all, you know who you are!!!

carving, decorating, raking, and trick-or-treating

2008-11-03T13:06:00.000-08:00

We really had some good times leading up to the Halloween holiday. For family night two Mondays before halloween we carved our pumpkins. The kids did great and I actually think Bo enjoyed it the most. Eden just wanted to use the knife-scary. She did not like the feel of the "guts" in her hands. Bo loved it! He ended up finishing Eden's. Anson drew a great face on his pumpkin and Barrett carved it. I just enjoyed watching it all and ended up carving the same face I did last year. Oh well. Unfortunately the warm weather has been less than kind to the pumpkins. You can see in the pictures from Halloween that they got pretty shriveled and nasty. Scary!

Next, we enjoyed some good old fashioned cookie decorating. Mom & Mike, Travis & Stacie, Tuck, Michelle and Beck and Amanda all came over for dinner and cookies. Things were a little bit different this year as my Mom had to spend some time in the hospital and have her thyroid removed. Scary, but OK. She is doing well and I will write more about this adventure another post. Anyway, we had a fun time and ate lots of cookies and decorations. The kids enjoyed eating the cookies more than decorating, but that's all right. What they really enjoyed the most was having Amanda in our home again. It has been two months since Anson's therapies with her ended and we all miss her so much! It was so good to see her again. And it's always fun to see the creativity flowing (not to dog myself and my brothers), but we all married such fun, creative people! Lucky us!! I only have a couple pictures of this adventure, but it sure was fun.

I got some sort of wild hair and decided to start raking our leaves up. Don't ask me why, it was just so nice outside one afternoon while we were waiting for Anson to get off the bus. Bo was a huge helper as you can imagine. He just liked to drag his rake through my pile and act real productive. Once Anson got off the bus and started running through my pile, Bo ditched the rake and did the same. Eden was taking a nap, so she missed out. But don't worry, only half the leaves from the front tree had even fallen at that point. This is the case no longer. Since the weather has changed and the winds have begun many, many more leaves are awaiting the rake. Anyone who feels the need and wants a free meal, we will happily have a leaf-raking party before too long. Let me know if you're interested-ha,ha!

And finally the big day. For the first time Anson and Eden were both excited to go trick-or-treating! Anson dressed up as Superman (yep, his same costume from last year), Eden was Minnie Mouse, her BFF, and Bo was Mickey Mouse. I can't remember where this costume came from, but there it was in our dress up chest and it said 18 months so I thought, what the heck? Too bad I didn't try it on him more than 5 minutes before we were to go and meet our friends from our ward to trick-or-treat. Way too small. Well luckily the weather was very cooperative this year, warmer than I ever remember it being, and it was ok that he had some leg showing. He did not seem to mind, thank goodness, and after Gma and Gpa Wood came over for some pictures, we were off. The kids were great and had lots of fun with our friends, the Andersons. Bo was a natural and even though he didn't say anything he would hold out his little bag, bat his long eyelashes and smile and walk away with several pieces every time. Anson and Eden did awesome and nobody had naps that day so they went down real easy after we got home. We stayed up to watch Poltergeist with Jerek and Holly. I'd never seen it. Not scary, just a little disturbing. A cheesy 80's movie-the kind you love to watch and roll your eyes and laugh and we enjoyed every minute! Yeah for Halloween!

Our trip to the Happiest Place on Earth!

2008-10-24T08:29:00.000-07:00

So to kick off our October we generally go on a family hiatus to the Oregon Coast for a few days-usually the days the kid's and Barrett have off school for inservice. Well, this year we decided to change things up a bit. As Anson is totally and completely obsessed with roller coasters (hello, fast trains that spin and go upside down!)we thought we might let him try some out for real, rather than just watching them on DVD's and youtube. Gma and Gpa Wod very, very graciously agreed to take Bo for the week while they went down to Escalante, Utah to visit great Gma and Gpa Munson who had just returned from their mission in Maratin's Cove. Bo's a great unpacker and all and he had a blast with all the grandparents to himself! And I almost hate to say it, but we had a blast without him. Sure he might have enjoyed some of it, but I'm real glad he wasn't there. Next time for sure though, bud! We had received some great tips from family friends and got some great deals, thanks to discounts with UPS and/or Military. As a last minute surprise we had a couple of friends from our ward come along. Carol and Sam. Carol is a disney fanatic-been there a hundred times, used to work there, etc..she was our VIP tour guide and she was awesome! Sam is Ansons primary teacher, an aide in his classroom at school and a family friend. She had never been before and jumped at the chance to come along. She was incredibly awesome, too. Both ladies were huge helps with the kids, watched them so Barrett and I could go on some rides together, etc..then they did their own thing some of the time so we got some good family time in as well. We all stayed at the same hotel (which was nothing fancy, but had a pool, a nice continental breakfast and a comfy place to lay our heads at night). So we all drove down to Salt Lake together and flew from there to long beach. Got a shuttle to the hotel and began our real adventure on Wednesday AM. Did I mention it was over 95 degrees on Tues night when we flew in-totally not expected. It was real warm our first couple days and real nice on Friday. Then we flew out Sat at noon back to SLC and drove home that night. Wow, what a trip! We did 3-day park hopper's and put them to serious use. The crowds were minimal and it was fantastic! A few of the highlights included lunch at Ariel's Grotto for all the "girls", which was a little pricey, but so yummy and so much fun to get one on one time with almost all of the princesses! Eden was in Heaven, so was Sam. And Carol. I loved watching it all!!! We loved, loved the parades in both parks, except for Anson, who thought they were too loud and did not care for the characters getting too close. We all loved all the rides we could go on, though the kids were not tall enough to go on the big roller coaster in Ca. adventure park-boo! But they loved the matterhorn or the "mountain train", thunder mountain railway (or whatever it's called) our kids called it the "fast train"and space mountain "dark train". They put their arms up on every ride, whether it was a coaster or not! They loved the food and the rides, and Eden loved all of the characters and the shows (we got lots of autopraphs and pictures) and they loved going back to the hotel to swim at night! It was an incredible time and I'm so glad it worked out this year. I can't wait to go back when we can all go on everything!

somewhere in September...

2008-10-21T21:06:00.000-07:00

here we have a random racoon, who had the nerve to walk right up to our back window and tempt us outside to try to get a decent picture. There were actually 3 of them from who knows where. Never seen em before, haven't seen em since. They all ended up hiding out in one of the trees in the back yard and were gone the next morning. and for any of you who care, Lulu (the bunny) was unharmed during the whole incident...
Eden and Anson getting a few good bike rides in before it get's too bitterly cold...
For any of you who have seen the movie "Monster House" you may or may not remember a little girl in the beginning scenes who rides her tricycle along the sidewalk singing and talking to herself, riding as fast as she can. Eden loves to imitate this girl, riding back and forth between the neighbors houses. Why the headband and sunglasses, I don't know? Just because she's Eden, I guess.
This is a cute picture, I think, of Eden and my cousin Greta at a family get together at Winstead park. Unfortunately it's about the only decent one I got. Eden had so much fun with Greta. And we had a great time visiting with family, especially Gma and Gpa Munson who surprised everyone by coming to Nathan Munson's missionary homecoming-So fun!

Run for Autism Awareness

2008-10-21T19:51:00.000-07:00

In late September our family took the challenge to participate in a little fun run
(5K)down at Veteran's Memorial Park to raise money and awareness for autism. I want to personally thank each one of you who ran: (Becky Ann Kent, Grandpa Mike Wood, Tucker and Michelle Botkin and Trey Botkin-better late than never, right? And Gma Wood was a HUGE help by watching all the kiddos while we ran (or jogged, in my case). Everyone did awesome, and I will take this opportunity to shine the spotlight on Trey for winning first place in his age group, and Barrett for getting third in his! Way to Go! It was really a great experience to see so many people from the valley come out to support this cause. There were way more people than I thought there would be. Of course, it's always nice to see the other kids, older and younger, who have the same tendencies, actions and reactions as Anson. Sometimes he seems so different, in a good way mostly, but there he was the same. And it was good to see. I love Anson so incredibly much and there are not many things in life that make me more proud than to be his mother. What a huge blessing he is in all our lives! Thank you again to ALL of our family and friends for continued support and love-I know you'll be blessed!

Anson's first day of school

2008-10-21T19:24:00.000-07:00

The first two pictures are obviously of Anson and the last is of all the kids eagerly anticipating the arrival of the school bus...

Here we are two months into the school year and I am just now posting a picture of Anson on the first day...Nice. Oh well, I'll just take a minute and tell you that he is doing really well in both classes. He spends a couple hours in the morning and a couple hours in the afternoon in the first grade classroom. He has several of the same students from kindergarten with him so they know how to work with him, which is so nice. It's a really small class-only 15 or so kids-yeah! When he's not in first grade he does his therapies and one-on-one with the SLC teacher and/or aides. Everyone is fantastic and says he does a great job. They especially love his musical talents. He sings so much, but not so much in music class. I think it's because he has perfect pitch and not everyone else does and it drives him crazy! He is especially good at reading, though we're a little unsure about his comprehension, he's great at spelling (I'll go ahead and take credit for that one) and real good at math-addition that is. He's having a bit harder time wrapping his brain around subtraction. He'll learn...Anyway, that's the first couple months for you. Hope the rest of you are enjoying the school year thus far...

2008-09-16T21:19:00.000-07:00

Finally, the end of our summer...I'm nearly caught up...

2008-09-06T06:30:00.000-07:00

This group of pictures is from the Bushman family reunion. We didn't get a lot of pictures, but we had a lot of fun. Thanks to the Thompson family for introducing us to Clayton, Idaho (up near Stanley-absolutely gorgeous!)and for providing such a fantastic time!

2008-09-06T05:39:00.001-07:00

So, I somehow managed to take a quick (3 month) hiatus from our blog. Not really on purpose though. I downloaded a lot of the following pictures months ago but could not get my slideshows to download onto our site. Just one of my pretty silly excuses...anyway. The summer was packed and we had some fantastic times. It just went by way too quickly. We celebrated birthdays, holidays, family reunions, and then we celebrated every day life. Here's a few pics from the first half of the summer-enough for one entry...

kindergarten graduating class of 2008

2008-06-06T06:29:00.000-07:00

Pierce Park Elementary kindergarten class of 2008, graduating class of 2020, was held Wednesday June 4th. My little boy is all growing up. The ceremony was priceless,(they sang some adorable songs, had a super cute slide show and ate delicious cupcakes) as most activities with children this age are-just a lot of smiles and laughs, and a lot of tears (on my part). I still can't believe how much I cried-I was tired, very little sleep the night before, but that's my only excuse. Other than that I was just as proud as can be and so tremendously grateful to Anson's classmates, his teachers and therapists, and all of our family for their endless energy and dedication in helping Anson achieve so very many goals this past year. Way to go, Sunshine!!!

Anson James "Sunshine"Bishop

Aren't they all too cute?! Anson is on back row, third from left.

Miss Sarah Royter and Anson. She is amazing-I so wish that she could move up with this class!

Anson and Mom. I didn't get a good pic of him in his cap(we had to give them back), but he is holding his little tassle. Nice purple frosting on his lips, eh?

When I leave...

2008-06-04T21:54:00.000-07:00

Every once in a while I jump at the opportunity to get out of the house and let Barrett get some good quality time in with the kids by himself. I come back a short while later and low, and behold, this is what I find...

Anson up in this tall tree by himself with no one, not even his father, terribly close to him.

Guess what? Anson is in heaven. He stayed up there for a good 20 minutes after I got home-he was just singing and laughing, having the time of his life!

Barrett up there verbally assisting him down, no physical help at all. We need a tree house (with a net at the bottom)!

What is it about ketchup?

2008-06-04T21:38:00.000-07:00

Each one has become an addict...

Memorial Day Festivities!

2008-06-03T23:29:00.001-07:00

So we had a really nice Memorial Day. I got up and went to visit/clean a few family graves and spent some time with family I don't see too often, which is always fun. And then around noon the Brett and Lori Bishop family and the Boyd and Becky Ann family came over to BBQ, play croquet, swing, chase the bunny and roast smores (which never happened because the weather turned nasty just as we were getting ready to begin). We'll try again sometime soon, I hope. The food and the kids were great and so was the weather for most of the afternoon-what a wonderful family! We are so thankful for all of our family and the amazing heritage that we have. We're thankful for this wonderful nation and so many freedoms...We are so blessed.

my favorite part of the month

2008-05-28T10:13:00.001-07:00

My very favorite part of the month, hands down, was all about the Tucker Botkin family. Tucker recieved the Melchezedick priesthood, then he was able to bless baby Beck, and then a week later Tucker and Michelle went to the temple to recieve their endowment and then they were sealed to each other and Beck in the Boise Temple! Yeah for you guys- we are so happy for your sweet family! We just love these guys and are so thankful for their hard work and dedication over the past year. Not to mention their loads of help with our kids who absolutely adore the three of them (as do I)! You guys are the best-we're so thrilled for you!!!

How time flies....!

2008-05-27T10:19:00.001-07:00

yes, another month has practically come and gone and what do we have to show for it..!?

We've been on the go this month, that's for sure. Anson has had field trips to the zoo (twice)/mk nature center/his school carnival/playdates to the park, library, back yard with lots of family and friends. Barrett and the boys enjoyed their father and son's overnighter. Eden and I made our own memories, we just forgot the camera. We planted most of our garden, went on some family bike rides, been reintroduced to rollerblades-anson loves them, even though he doesn't move very fast. and we've all enjoyed a spin or two on the new (used) radio flyer scooter! Eden, Bo and I go down to my dad's shop once or twice a week to visit, eat candy, get real dirty, etc..And with the nice (on again/off again) weather we've been spending some good times bbqing and making smores. yum!! I recently joined our ward's primary presidency and did my first sharing times over the month of May and now I get a couple months off. I'm really excited to be in primary! we are nearing the last days of school and I am so ready-yeah for the summer!!!

just a glimpse...

2008-04-29T21:04:00.000-07:00

Here are a few random photos from the past month...

Bo's latest hair cut

It is officially springtime-we know because dandelions become a permanant fixture on Eden's face and on our furniture and floor...

Even Bo gets in on the flower picking, even if they are just the one's from the floor

Eden and Bo crankin' out some tunes...

Anson and Amanda flying a kite-it's up there, I promise, it's just white on the bottom

Eden loves Little Einstein's

Bo getting a little more brave walking between the furniture (this was at the beginning of the month-he's all over the place now)!

These ones are at my dad's house when we went over for dinner and birthday cheesecake-yum!

What a cutie!

No trip to grandpa's is complete without ice cream

Beck and Bo getting a ride from grandpa De-licious!!!

handsome Anson

Finally, some spring break pictures!

2008-04-11T22:45:00.001-07:00

We have been home for aweek and a half and I'm just now posting this. So typical of me. Unfortunately I have a weak memory and can't remember the names of some of the places we went, but we had such an incredibly wonderous time in San Francisco with the Nielsen's and want to take a minute to say thank you for making this trip so fun! I really wish we could've had a few more days and nights to play with Barrett's sister Bethany, her husband Matthew and their two boys Evan (4) and Dallin(2). We really hope that after Matthew graduates from dental school in June that they will be able to find a super job somewhere closer to Boise...

Happy 55th, Dad!

2008-04-09T21:40:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday, Grandpa (Dad)!!

This is a crazy day. We woke up to an inch of snow on the ground-boo (I'm totally ready for spring)...It basically melted by noon and turned out to be a nice afternoon-yea! We had a yummy lunch down at the shop(Boise Car Upholstery) this afternoon for a little birthday celebration for Dad. He treated us to Westside Drive In-a really great reuben sandwich if you're looking! And then I threw together a really scary, but decent tasting cake. I frosted it with Katie's pudding frosting while it was still warm-bad idea for obvious reasons. Like I said, not pretty, but it hit the sweet spot...All I can say is that I was in a hurry because the kid's wanted to see uncle Tucker before he had to leave for work. Hopefully we can do a little more thorough celebration this weekend...

Poor Eden

2008-04-09T21:09:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting to post about our spring break trip for quite some time but have managed to stay busy cleaning up Eden's bodily messes over the last several days. She has been so sick, I hate it. I finally took her to the doctor yesterday and got things mostly resolved. I think she just picked up a nasty virus from somewhere and then got an ear infection somewhere along the way. Apparently this is a bad combo for our little princess because she has managed to lose 4 pounds over the last 5 days. No good. Luckily she has perked up quite a bit and kept everything down throughout the day-yeah! I didn't take any pictures, but I need to because she got a cute haircut from Aunt Stacie last week just before she got sick. The crazy thing about this sickness is that she was so sick Fri and Sat, seemed much better on Sunday-we even went over to gma and gpa wood's for yummy breakfast and to watch conference and then to our friend's, the Grisham's for a little bbq/goodbye party for some other friends who are moving. Eden didn't eat anything all day, but ran around and played a lot. Then started back up with the sickness on Monday and Tuesday. Wierd. Hopefully it is gone for good and doesn't go to visit any of our friends...Too bad for Barrett he had drill all weekend and missed all the fun.

Bo's 1st birthday/haircut /Easter part 2

2008-03-31T23:40:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how incredibly late I am in posting all this stuff, but better late than never, right? So, the afternoon we came home from Idaho City(March 22nd) Barrett concocted this masterpiece of a cake for Bo's birthday. No formed pan or anything. Isn't he amazing? Bo has a little red car that he loves to drive all over everything. Anyway, most of the local family came over again for cake and ice cream. Unfortunately Bo was still not feeling well. (He politely waited for all the company to leave before letting loose with whatever he had consumed that day-yuck). He had a weak stomach and is working on getting 6 new teeth. What a bummer way to spend your 1st birthday. I just felt so bad for him because he was not interested in his cake and ice cream at all, didn't wanna open presents, nothing...lucky for us the company was great and we'll just try again next year, I guess.

And then came the highly anticipated (for Barrett) first haircut. He politely waited till the next morning when Bo seemed to be feeling a bit better. It's so hard for me to sit and watch those little curls fall to the ground, but he really looks so cute and so much older with short hair...
Okay, his hair doesn't look terribly curly in these pictures, but it was. And now it's not. But he looks very handsome and clean cut and grown up, don't you think? Too bad the popsicle could not cheer him up or help him feel better. Thankfully, a few days later he was doing much better.

Easter was a little different this year. I was so focused on Bo's birthday and our anniversary-I didn't do a whole lot. Eden got a pretty new dress and Anson and Eden did a little egg hunt in our back yard. And since Bo was still not feeling up to par we opted not to take him to church (Barrett very graciously volunteered to stay home with him so that I could sub in one of the primary classes). Anson, Eden and I went to church, then we all went over to gma&gpa wood's house for Easter dinner/Uncle Travis' b-day dinner. We enjoyed awesome easter baskets, a delicious meal then played some fun games and had divine dessert. what a day! Thanks to our family for making this such a special weekend for us-we love you!

our anniversary+ birthday's+Easter=busy weekend Part one

2008-03-24T20:35:00.000-07:00

I'll begin by writing that last week all 3 kids got "the crud" from somewhere. Not too bad, just not fun at all. Well, Barrett took Friday off from teaching and UPS so that we could go somewhere to celebrate our 7th anniversary(march 23, easter sunday this year), seeing as how last year we spent our day recuperating from giving birth to Bo the previous day...So Friday after Anson got home from school and over to therapy we loaded up Eden and Bo and took them over to Gma Wood's. Neither of them were feeling very good, but we knew they'd be well taken care of for the next 24 hours so we took off up to Idaho City. It's true, I felt a little bit guilty leaving them, but was so very excited to spend some quality time with Barrett that I got over it pretty quick. We drove to More's creek summit, about 20 minutes past IC. Just as we were pulling into a parking area several snowmobiller's were loading up to leave. They said we'd basically have the mountain to ourselves and they were right. It was a gorgeous day to be in the mountains! We slipped into our snowshoes and Barrett had a small pack with our water, camera and sleds(given to us from the new year baby), and we were off...We snowshoed quite a ways up and then we sled most of the way back down. I'll share some pictures and try a video clip...just know that it was some much needed fun for both of us. It's been a while since just the two of us had a good time like this. Of course I thought several times that the kids would be loving the sledding part of it, but probably not the hiking up the mountain part-and honestly I was happy not to be hauling them!

After we wore ourselves out we headed back into town for a great meal at a place called the Goldmine. After dinner we checked into our room at the Idaho City Hotel-not exactly the most romantic place, but it had a lot of character and we had a lot of fun. We (I) switched back and forth between the BSU men's bball game and the Sound of Music, it was great! Only too bad BSU lost...oh well. The only thing that could've capped off this night woulda been a dip in the old warm springs. Do you(Munson's) remember that sign in the bathroom that said:

Welcome to our OOL

Notice there's no P in it

Let's keep it that way

Gosh, I miss that place...

Next morning we had breakfast at a little place called Calamity Janes. The food was pretty good, but our fellow patrons really made the experience. All locals. Enough said. And then we headed back to life and reality in Boise. Barrett and I both hope to make this a tradition, we had so much fun!

a new tag from Lori

2008-03-17T23:08:00.000-07:00

I'll have you know that I've got two very great books sitting right here next to me. The Runaway Bunny by Margaret Wise Brown and Witches by Roald Dahl. The tag says to grab the closest book, turn to page 123 and find the fifth sentence then write the next three lines. Unfortunately The runaway bunny doesn't have 123 pages, but I'll write to you from page 12:
"If you become a bird and fly away from me," said his mother, "I will be a tree that you come home to." I just love this story!

And from witches:
I'm going against my better judgement on this one because I haven't gotten this far in the book yet-I hope this doesn't spoil it for me...As a matter of fact, there are only 5 sentences on this page, so I'll start with page 124:
"As soon as I was out of the Ballroom, I took off like a flash. I streaked down the corridor, went through the Lounge and the Reading Room and the Library and the Drawing Room and came to the stairs. Up the stairs I went, jumping quite easily from one to the other, keeping well in against the wall all the time."

I hope you're all on the edge of your seats...

I tag Michelle, Katie, Molly, and Stacie

Swimming at the Y

2008-03-10T13:25:00.000-07:00

Anson has just wrapped up an aquatic therapy sessionat the YMCA provided by St Lukes/Idaho Elks Rehab, the same place he does his occupational and speech therapy. His teachers name was Krystal, and Anson had a ball with her. It is helpful that he loves the water- it's extremely theraputic for him. We were excited for him to get to participate in this session for a couple different reasons; first of all-he loves the water and has absolutely no fear of the water. Good and bad. We also wanted to work on getting him used to wearing goggles, laying on his back and just following his teacher's directions. Luckily for us he improved immensley in all areas-yea! Krystal said she has already put his name on the waiting list because she loved working with him and thinks he has a lot of potential in the water. It will probably not be until late summer or early fall before he can go again. This bums me out just a litle because all the kids (and Barrett and I ) could go swimming while Anson was in his class-for FREE! Eden and Bo just loved it, but that's OK, it sure was nice while it lasted. Now we just have to find somewhere to practice over the next few months...

Anson eyeballs the high dive every week, points to it and says,"this one?". So Barrett finally talked to the lifeguard to find out what Anson had to do to so that he could go off the diving board....

In order to jump off the high dive you have to swim 5o meters, or two lengths of the pool. Of course, I wasn't sure that Anson could do that because I don't know if I can even do that these days. But he did. And when he was done he climbed right on up to the high dive and jumped-no fear whatsoever! What a kid! I hope he doesn't forget how to do it while we wait for his next set of lessons.

Eden has a birthday!

2008-03-05T14:41:00.000-08:00

Eden modeling her new dress!

Enjoying cake and ice cream with Gpa Botkin!

Sunday March 2, 2008 was Eden's 3rd birthday! Holy Cow-what a year for this girl! Eden is so much fun, we really do love her! She does like to test the limits (and her mother's patience) about every day. Keeps life exciting, I guess...Anyway, I think she really enjoyed the day. She opened up a gift before church-a new dress (her favorites). And we made and frosted cupcakes for the other kids in nursery-cruel on a fast sunday. oh well. After church all the local family came over for cake and ice cream. I will say it was a real toss up between Eden and Lulu for who got the most attention -Ha, poor bunny. Thank you to grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins for coming and sharing her special day. We did more videotaping, and only took a couple of still pictures. Hope some of Gpa Wood's pics turn out...

another tag

2008-02-26T22:19:00.000-08:00

I actually borrowed this tag from my sister in law, Bethany, not because my answers will be interesting, but because I'd like to read about anyone else who feels like sharing-I might get specific at the end...

10 years ago: I was enjoying life as a sophmore at BSU, "waiting for my missionary" but dating a friend from high school that I really liked who was getting ready to go to Rick's college and play soccer. Crazy enough, I met Barrett almost exactly 10 years ago at an Idaho Stampede basketball game. We were both on double dates, but got to talking about mutual friends. nothing happened between us, we both liked our dates...isn't it crazy how life pans out?

5 things on my to-do list today:
1. survive my first pack meeting-our blue and gold banquet, nonetheless.
2. get Anson up and at em and out the door in a fairly good mood
3. make rice and sauce for chicken haystacks for tonight's banquet
4. take Anson to ST/OT and survive yet another week of 2 hours out in the waiting area with my two other kiddos who will undoubtably need naps and numerous diaper changes-blah..
5. spend some quality time with my wonderous husband who works way too hard! (and rarely complains)

5 Snacks I enjoy:
1. Ice cream
2. girl scout cookies (and, hallelujah, they're nearly here!)
3. Cheese-most every kind
4. chocolate-especiall Lindt dark chocolate, the little round ones in the blue wrapping or the godiva chocolate cheesecake from the cheesecake factory-love that stuff!
5. fruit-especially with cheese or chocolate. just kidding. I like it plain too.

What would I do if I were suddenly made a billionaire: Give my husband a break from all his hard work-tell him to give up one or two or all of his jobs!)... pay off Eden's hospital bills...donate to several charities...I'd love to do some updates on this 1950's house of ours (which I love dearly)...pour a basement because I never wanna move, build a treehouse in this amazing tree in our backyard-it's just begging for a great fort...go on a few trips: to kenya to visit Barrett's parents on their mission, back to switzerland for the cheese and chocolate and the mountains and to Fiji for some real relaxation. I could go on and on...

5 Places I have lived…
1. Meridian, Idaho- 4 different addresses
2. Boise, Idaho -3 different addresses
3. Radcliff, Kentucky

Jobs that I have had...My first real job I had was that of a paper girl-4 years I had that route, then I worked at TCBY for a year, I waitressed at Chicago Connection for a few year, I worked for a microfilming company copying companies info onto microfiche, I worked for the YMCA, I worked for Concrete Construction Supply delivering stuff, bending rebar, etc..and I'm currently employed by Gap working on their stock team ocassionally and enjoying the discount...

5 things people don't know about me:
1. I hate pop-won't even drink it after a long, hot day climbing up and down hole in the rock
2. I love the smell of fresh cut grass, baseball gloves, cedar/sandal wood, hot popped popcorn, cilantro (fresh salsa) and chocolate cake baking in the oven
3. I was a treasure valley clogger for 5 years and loved most every minute of it, except freestyling.
4. I still sleep with my childhood blanket every night, though it is now a layer on our bed under the duvet
5. I want to serve several missions with my husband someday, and would love to learn a new language or two

I guess I won't get specific, but if you feel like sharing, I'll read up on you...you won't go unnoticed, I promise!

tag

2008-02-26T21:44:00.000-08:00

My first tag that I've found time to answer...

1. How long have you and your significant other been together? Married nearly 7 years and dated for 18 months before that-WOW, time flies...
2. Who eats more? Me, without a doubt
3. Who said I love you first? Me, Im pretty sure
4. Who is taller? Barrett's got me by a good6-8 inches
5. Who sings better? Barrett has a great voice
6.Who does laundry? I gather it, wash it, fold it, but have issues about putting it away for some reason...
7. Who does dishes? need I answer?
8.Who sleeps on the right side of thebed?Me
9. Who pay's the bills? Used to be Barrett until he went to Iraq and I had to learn how and somehow he never resumed responsibility
10. Who mows the lawn? I love to mow!
11. Who cooks dinner? I love to cook
12.Who drives when you are together? it's almost always me. Barrett likes to pull out the homework that needs correcting, which generally leads to a nap and I'm okay with itbecause I really enjoy driving
13. Who is more stubborn? me
15.Who's parent's do you see the most? mine, but we also really enjoyed going over to barrett's parents house until they left on their mission. we try to spread our love around the treasure valley.
16. Who kissed who first? I think it was pretty mutual
17.Who proposed? Barrett did in a way only he could pull off
18.Who is more sensitive? umm...., yah right-ME
19.Who has more friends? he's pretty darn popular
20. Who has more siblings? barrett 6-kendra 2 full, 1 half, 4 step
21. Who wears the pants? ultimately Barrett, at least concerning the important things in our life,I decide on the trivial ones...

Pancakes anybody?

2008-02-22T13:38:00.000-08:00

After Anson's speech and occupational therapies on Tuesday afternoon we went home and I was thinking about what to fix for dinner (it was around 3:30pm). This is the conversation that took place between Anson and myself around the dining table:

Anson: I want snack please! (he's so polite)

Me: What would you like?

Anson: I want pancakes please

Me: Sorry, sunshine, the pancakes are all gone (we had them for breakfast on Sunday)

Anson: The mommy makes pancakes?

Me: Not tonight, how about tomorrow morning

Anson: The boy(this is how he refers to himself these days) cooks the pancakes?

Was he serious? could he possibly want to come into the kitchen and do this? I have been waiting for one of my children to want to help in the meal prep. Possible dream come true?

Me: Okay, Anson, let's make some pancakes.

His eyes lit up and he came in and wanted to sit on the counter. I measured and he poured (all 3) ingredients-we used bisquick. He stirred, he scooped the batter, poured the batter onto the griddle-reminding me numerous times that it was hot. He even flipped the hot cakes. Needless to say, I was in awe. I was so happy and proud I was practically bawling. He put the pancakes on a plate, jumped down off the counter got a bowl and fork, waited patiently for the syrup and then he devoured them. He ate 5 and left 1 each for Bo and Eden. It was one of my very favorite experiences ever as a mom. I was so engrossed in the whole episode that I didn't get any pictures taken, but lucky for me (and you) he wanted to do it again the next day, and the next day and even this morning. I did manage to get some pictures the second time around, they aren't the best, but you get the drift. His IBI therapist, Amanda, is in the background watching. She told me what I had already assumed-this is so not typical of children with autism. Anson is my hero-I love you little man!

p.s. maybe Anson and Evan can open up their own restaurant some day?

Our President's Day weekend

2008-02-22T07:46:00.000-08:00

So, we kicked off the weekend with a trip to the local fish store. Unfortunately a couple of our previous tank occupants have moved on to bigger and better places, so we had some space to fill. The kids all loved the store, especially the fish resembling the characters on Finding Nemo. no clown fish for us, but we got a couple other cuties. Saturday we spent some time on our bikes and at the park, out enjoying the beautiful sunshine. Sunday was nice and reverent (ha!) and we really enjoyed feeding the missionaries. The two elder's we have right now are pretty funnny and the kids had lots of fun with them. And then came Monday...So, Barrett mentioned a while ago that a coworker at UPS rabbit had babies-fun for them. Well then Barrett mentioned that he thought our kids might enjoy one. Maybe, but what do we know about raising a bunny?(nothing). fast forward to Monday. I needed to go to Costco and Barrett casually mentions that he'll just drop me off and then take the kids to pick out a bunny. okay, have fun. I figured he would chicken out, but he didn't and now we have an adorable little bundle of white fluff that we've christened Lulu bunny. We hope it turns out to be a girl, too early to tell yet. anyway, the kids absolutely adore her (Eden might love her a bit too much some times, but I keep telling myself that the bunny will be okay)...We've read that they can live for 7-10 years, aunt Stacie said she gives it 2 years, max. hopefully we'll prove her wrong. Right now she lives in a cage in our family room, but when it warms up we'll move her out to the shop. Rest assured there will be updated posts concerning our life as bunny owners, whether you wanna read em or not is up to you...For now enjoy some pics of the kiddos as proud Lulu family members!

I have a problem...

2008-02-19T23:54:00.000-08:00

I have a slight love/hate relationship with suckers, lollipops, whatever you wanna call em. My kids all adore them, and I adore my kids while they're eating them. But then comes the cleanup. Anson and Eden aren't so bad anymore, as long as they remember to throw away their little sticks when they're done, but baby Bo is a whole other story. Why must he insert the sucker into his mouth from every angle, meanwhile manhandling the sticky, bulbous portion? Does he purposely roll it between his hands and fingers, the rungs of his highchair, his whole section of the dinner table and finally through his hair to gross me out and make me crazy? I think so, and yet I have no one to blame but myself. That whole experience just bought me a few minutes to clear the dishes or fold some clothes or some other activity that would've been just a little bit more complicated with his help. So I'll bite my tongue and probably put myself through the whole ordeal again in a few days. And I will love every minute of it because it is so darn cute!

Don't you wanna take a nap?

2008-02-19T23:35:00.000-08:00

Eden is at a crucial (for me) stage in her life right now. She is growing out of her afternoon naps-most days. Ocassionally she will still lay down, but not too often. If she is tired I try my darndest to get Bo to nap at the same time in order to feel like I might be able to get something accomplished during the day...Well, the other day she was being just a little bit crabby and I said to her,"Don't you just wanna take a nap"? And she glared at me and walked off and not five minutes later I went in her room to check on her and she was snuggled with her favorite blanket under her bed amidst her stuffed animals. Too sweet! I debated taking pictures or not for fear of her waking up, but I couldn't resist. Sleeping kids are the BEST!

way to go, Anson!

2008-02-19T05:50:00.000-08:00

Here I am doing a little catch up again. At the beginning of the month Anson's elem. school had a little end of the semester awards ceremony. Each class in the school got to nominate 5 kids in 5 different areas of improvement. Anson was awarded in the linguistic word-intelligence category in his specialized learning class. All I can think is that his vocabulary has grown by leaps and bounds- I am so extremely proud of him. He came home with a medal(that Eden likes to wear around) and a nice certificate. Unfortunately I couldn't get to the ceremony because Eden got the barfs just as we were getting ready, but this is the picture his teacher sent me. She is putting the medal around his neck and the principal is looking on-both terrific ladies. Way to go, Anson!!

2008-02-05T21:02:00.000-08:00

I am just realizing that this is all going to be posted in the opposite order in which I meant for it to go, but oh well. My last little bit will be sans photos, just my meager thoughts. I was blessed to give a talk a couple weeks ago,( in fact, the day that he passed away), in church which I focused on a couple of talks given from Pres. Hinckley. My topic was Light of a New Day. One thing you shoud know is that I am not a good speaker, but it was (and generally is) such a learning experience, one where I really felt that I learned the most about myself and in this case, recieved yet another confirmation that President Hinckley truly was a prophet for our Church. I too am grateful for his service and love yet am so glad that he is united with his dear wife. I look forward to the great things that are in store concerning our new first presidency and the church worldwide. What a beautiful Faith!

Granted, I don't love this picture of me, or any picture of me, really. But Eden wanted me to take our picture so badly the other day I couldn't say no. She is something else, I tell ya. What a ham, a cute one, but a ham nontheless. I love you, Eden.

I dedicate this next small section of my entry to Sabrina Z. I honestly believe that we baked and fed our nearly one year olds chocolate chip cookies on the same day. Bo doesn't look quite as happy as Cohen, but he truly was until I got the camera out. He is suddenly wary of the thing, maybe it's the flash? Who knows. All I know is that I don't feel too bad about feeding Bo the cookie. Is it because #1-he's my third and #2-I was just trying to keep him out from under my feet? Sure thing.

This is a small sampling of Barrett's German Club members at a Raclette(traditional Swiss meal) dinner in January. This club, through the high school, gets together every other month for fun, food and festivities! Unfortunately Barrett was the one taking these pictures so he's not in there, but it really was a good time. These parties are generally at a student's house, sometimes at our house and they really are fun and funny! You get all types in the foreign language classes, you know. I know that Barrett is a fantastic teacher, and the kids really appreciate him. He spends a lot of time preparing lessons and parties and he has helped liven up the German program at ol' Centennial.

Yes, it's true. I've fallen behind in my entries (no real suprise to anyone who knows me and my lack of computer prowess). I've taken a few pictures but I get on to update and start looking at everyone else's blogs and lose track of time, and blah, blah...So I will now do a condensed entry for the past month. Since the big Botkin date night: Tucker and Michelle and Beck moved down to American Fork. Sad for us, happy for them (for the most part, I think). It was a good excuse to get together at the Spencer's to play Wii-Anson loves the game where you ride the cow and hit the scarecrows-crazy kid. Anson and Eden love Uncle Tucker and Aunt Michelle and ask about them on a weekly basis. It was good to see them one last time. Hope they don't stay away too long...

2008-02-05T20:50:00.000-08:00

One of Anson's long time favorite things to do is watch (admire) himself in the mirror,window, doorknob, faucet wherever he can see his reflection. I've been told numerous times this is a trait picked up from his father, definately not me. So I walked into the bathroom to check on him the other morning and there he was squatting on the counter in nothing but his underpants reciting word for word Dr Seuss' ABC book. One of his favorites. I wish I would've taken some video footage. He is so great!!!

How 'bout them Giants!

2008-02-05T20:38:00.000-08:00

Sunday night's Super Bowl was a dream come true for Barrett. Having been a Giants fan for years and years his loyalty finally paid off. I asked him on the way to my dad's house what he wanted to see out of the game. He politely replied he wanted a good, close game. Of course, if the Giants win, that would be great too. I guess it was his lucky year. Here he is modeling a new hat courtesy of a coworker from UPS, his coat, gloves and blankets from high school, and wallet that I gave him for a 5th wedding anniversary gift! Go Giants!!!

2008-01-16T14:54:00.000-08:00

Monday night we got a real treat when Barrett and I got to spend the evening with my brother's, their spouses, my stepsister and my dad and Cheryl. Their Christmas gift to us this year was an evening out all together. We started out being picked up by a limo, then we went to dinner at the spaghetti factory downtown and finally to the Morrison Center for a performance by the Riverdance company. It was a very enjoyable evening together, at least I thought so. The show actually took me back to my clogging days, but they were much better. There was so much energy and talent! It was awesome. Even the guys had a good time...It was also my first time in a limo-what fun. I really love my family and I'm glad we can get together and laugh and bond. Thanks to G&G Wood for watching the kids for us! It was our last hoora with Tucker and Michelle before they move down to Utah this coming weekend for a year. I am really gonna miss them and cute little Beck. It's not too terribly far, though, so I'm sure we'll get to visit a time or two while they're there...Thank you to Dad and Cheryl for this group date-we loved it!!

2008-01-15T21:42:00.000-08:00

So, the weekend after Christmas we were supposed to drive down to Overton,Nevada and meet up with all 6 of Barrett's siblings at their grandparents (both sets) houses. Unfortunately for us the weather was not cooperating and would've turned a 10 hour drive on good roads into a who-knows-how-long drive in yuck roads. So we decided not to make the trek as several of the siblings were going to be leaving the following morning to go home anyway. We heard that everyone had a great time and we are sad we didn't make it down, but we opted for the next best thing and literally crashed at Barrett's sister Bridgette's home in Tooele,Ut the next day after they got home from Nevada. We stayed for several days and nights and couldn't have asked for more gracious hosts. Again, my lack of picture taking astounds me...But I do want the Wolf family to know how thankful we are for the wonderful weekend. Taryn,Max, and Cecily were just fantastic with Anson, Eden, and Bo! Bridgette and Todd made the ultimate sacrifice (their bedroom) and we're so grateful. We are truly blessed to have such amazing family! Church, New Year's Eve, etc...everything was great! Plus, on New Year's Eve day we went and visited Barrett's brother, Bruce, at his fire station in Holliday and got a good tour just before he got called out.( I did manage one or two pictures there). And then that evening his other brother's Brad and Brett and their families came out to Tooele for dinner and games. New Year's day we packed up and headed for home, but made one more stop in West Jordan to visit Bruce, Kristee, Bridger and Charlee in their new digs. They spoiled us with lunch and entertained us with their new Wii(?). Overall, it was a very happy ending to our supposedly ruined trip. WE're only sorry that we missed the grandparents, the nielsen's and the kent's. We love you guys!

2008-01-15T20:50:00.000-08:00

Now, I have a lot of catching up to do since it's been over a month since my last post...The christmas holiday was great-lots of time spent with family. We went to kendra's dad's house for christmas eve and did fondue (cheese and chocolate!) and spent some time visiting with great grandpa(Keith) Botkin, uncle Trey, grandpa and nana botkin, and Kendra (my stepsister). Then headed home, put the kids to bed and opened up Santa's workshop till 2am. I had nothing wrapped and was still putting some finishing touches on some family gifts. Every year I say I'm gonna be better prepared...um,yah..Christmas morning came early with G&G Wood, Travis and Stacie, and Tucker,Michelle and Beck arriving around 7am. Unfortunately Bo was up for 4 hours inbetween with what I found out the day after christmas was a pretty nasty ear infection-poor kiddo. Needless to say, I was tired from the beginning and will blame that on my lack of picture taking for the day, which is horrible, but true. I'll just share the couple that I did get and hope that the grandparents got a few others..

The kids had a good time and we all got some really fun(funny) gifts- maybe I'll elaborate some other time. We took a couple hour break then went over to my dad's house to visit and exchange gifts. And finally over to mom and mike's for lunch/dinner and games and naps-yeah! We really had a wonderful day and were blessed with many nice gifts. The only thing that would've made it better would've been to spend part of the day withBarrett's parents. Bless their hearts, they are serving a mission in nairobi, kenya, and they're having wonderful experiences. We sure do miss them though.

Baby Bo

2008-01-15T20:36:00.000-08:00

I am pretty sure that some day Bo is going to get a little embarassed over some of the pictures I've taken of him, but for now I will just enjoy them. He is such an adorable baby! Two months from now those long locks of his are going to get chopped off, so I have to have fun with them while I can (Barrett get's to give the boys their first haircuts when they turn one).

Good Times

2007-12-09T21:40:00.000-08:00

Yet another weekend leading up to Christmas day has come and gone. Friday was our ward christmas party and we had a nice time there. Eden and Bo both sat on Santa's lap, Anson wasn't interested. Cute pictures (on my cell phone). Saturday morning we woke up to snow and were all excited to build a great snowman. Unfortunately by the time we got back home after fulfilling our "clean the building" assignment the snow was basically all melted away. Luckliy, there was just enough on the tramp to make a mini snowman. Again, I got a good picture, but only on my phone again. Don't know what I was thinking. That afternoon Grandma Wood came and picked Anson and Eden up and took them to a DirecTV christmas party, then to their ward christmas party. Barrett, Bo and I ran a couple errands, then crashed the Riva Ridge ward party. It was very nice to see and catch up with some friends from our previous ward. We sure love our new ward, but also miss the old one! And finally after attending church on Sunday we went over to Gma&Gpa Wood's house to celebrate Mike's birthday with a yummy dinner and a little get together with the local Munson families to write letters to the missionaries serving from the family. Nathan Munson in Washington D.C. and Gma&Gpa at Martin's Cove,Wyoming. Of course there were delicious treats to be eaten, this family is full of good cooks! What a wonderful weekend!!

2007-12-07T01:12:00.000-08:00

This is our family! Anson, Kendra, Eden, Bo and Barrett Bishop.

here we go again...

2007-12-05T21:48:00.000-08:00

I'm gonna try this whole blog thing again. It's been a year and a half since my first and only posting, and I have since been inspired to give it another whirl.